Strand 2 Animal Science: Recognizing Diseases and Disorders in Companion Animals

Disease

A condition that disrupts normal body function.

Disorder

A broader term that includes functional problems that may not have a single clear cause.

Infectious Disease

Results from invasion and multiplication of microorganisms.

Noninfectious Disease

Not caused by a transmissible pathogen; due to genetics, nutrition, trauma, toxins, or organ dysfunction.

Zoonosis

A disease that can infect both animals and humans.

Viruses

Microorganisms that often cause systemic illness and can spread quickly in unvaccinated groups.

Bacteria

Pathogens that may cause respiratory, skin, urinary, or gastrointestinal disease.

Fungi

Organisms that affect skin/hair and can also impact deeper tissues.

Parasites

Organisms that live on or in a host, causing various health issues.

Protozoa

Single-celled organisms often causing gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea.

Trauma

Physical injury to an animal, which can lead to noninfectious disease.

Genetic/Conceitual

Diseases present at birth or inherited.

Toxic Exposure

Ingestion or exposure to harmful substances like plants and medications.

Obesity

A condition where excessive body fat increases health risks.

Urine Output Issues

Frequent urination, straining, or blood-tinged urine indicating urinary problems.

Respiratory Distress

Signs like coughing, sneezing, and abnormal breathing efforts.

Abdominal Distension

Swelling of the abdomen due to various potential causes.

Heat Stress

Occurs when an animal cannot effectively cool down, potentially leading to heat stroke.

Air Quality Issues

Conditions that compromise respiratory health due to poor ventilation or sanitation.

Vaccination

Administration of a vaccine to elicit an immune response.

Antibodies

Proteins produced by the immune system to neutralize pathogens.

Immunity

The body's ability to resist infectious disease.

Active Immunity

Protection produced by the animal's immune system after exposure to an antigen.

Passive Immunity

Protection gained by receiving antibodies from another source.

Biosecurity

Behaviors that prevent the introduction and spread of disease in animal facilities.

Sanitation and Disinfection

Cleaning removes organic material; disinfection kills many pathogens on surfaces.

Fecal Flotation

A test to detect parasite eggs in feces through centrifugation.

Urinalysis

Test evaluating properties of urine to assess health status.